The Tribal Historic Preservation Office (THPO) Archaeologist oversees cultural resource projects that are of particular importance to the Samish Indian Nation. This role provides expert guidance on archaeological and cultural resource management issues and related projects. Responsibilities include occasional fieldwork—such as background review, subsurface surveys, and monitoring—as well as cultural resource consultations with local, state, and federal agencies. The Archaeologist also advises Tribal administration and government on matters concerning archaeological and cultural resources.

Why work for Samish?

The Samish Indian Nation provides a very competitive compensation package, which includes medical, dental, vision, STD/LTD, Life Insurance, optional supplemental coverage plans, a 401(k) Plan, paid vacation and sick leave, and approximately 16 paid holidays. Best of all, we offer a great environment with passionate and caring staff!

Benefits Summary

• Hybrid Work Arrangement potential
• Health insurance including medical, dental & vision
• Life, AD&D, STD and LTD insurance
• Annual & Sick Leave
  
• Paid holidays (up to 16+ days per year)
• Paid jury, bereavement & cultural leave
• Wellness & Employee Assistance Plan
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Wage increases at 6 months, 1 year and annually (based on performance evaluation and available funds)
  

1. Coordinates the development and implementation of annual and long-term THPO Program goals.
2. Conducts all aspects of cultural resource consultation (NHPA Section 106, GEO 21-02, SEPA, NEPA, NAGPRA, and others) with local, state, and federal agencies, including attending meetings, correspondence, and research.
3. Conducts or facilitates field work, field reconnaissance, and construction monitoring as needed.
4. Manages all archaeological and cultural resources on Tribal trust lands.
5. On occasion, creates exhibits of archaeological and cultural material.
6. Works with relevant committees on issues related to Tribal culture and cultural resources.
7. Assists the Natural Resources Manager with program development, administration, project management, research of available funding sources, and preparing applications in support of cultural resource management projects.
8. Maintains up-to-date records of archaeological reports, cultural resource reports, and correspondence.
9. Attends and periodically presents at professional conferences and meetings.
10. Coordinates cultural resource actions with other Samish Natural Resources Department staff.
11. Prepares written quarterly and annual department progress reports.
12. Prepares department budget reports.
13. Attends meetings as requested.
14. Performs other duties as assigned.

1. Must possess a Bachelor’s Degree in Anthropology/Archaeology or Cultural Resources Management and have a minimum of two years of experience in cultural resource management.
2. Must have a strong working knowledge of federal and state cultural resource laws.
3. Must have experience with archaeological field work and report writing.
4. Must possess strong written, verbal, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
5. Must be highly proficient with Microsoft Office to include Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams.

 Preferred Qualifications:

1. Knowledge of Coast Salish culture, both contemporary and historical. 
2. Experience with ArcGIS.

Physical Demands: Long periods of sitting (60% of time); occasional bending, crouching, stooping, stretching, reaching, lifting, carrying, and pushing (20% of time); and occasional standing and walking (20% of time). Occasionally lifts/carries up to 20 lbs. Must possess manual dexterity sufficient to use office equipment with frequent repetitive motion such as writing, typing, cash-handling, and phone use. Must possess the ability to view print on a computer screen and/or paper document; the ability to speak and hear exchanging information with end users by telephone Mental/Visual Demands: Frequent mental and/or visual attention to task is required. Occasionally work requires heavy concentration. Frequent interruptions. Tasks involve eye-hand coordination. Working Environment: Work environment varies depending on project and can include indoors office work with heat and some air conditioning, as well as field work with varying weather conditions. Must be able to sit or stand at desk for the majority of shift, as well as withstand adverse weather conditions (rain, cold, wind) in the field. Occasionally works alone without benefit of supervisor or co-worker. Unavoidable hazards/risks: Work requires minimal risks which require safety precautions and environmental safety precautions. Protective clothing or equipment may be required.

Samish Indian Nation is an Equal Opportunity Employer and actively encourages applications from all persons regardless of race, religion, gender, gender identity, age, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, or ancestry.  Samish preference and Indian preference will be applied to the selection for this position as defined in Title 25, US Code Section 473.

CONFIDENTIALITY: This position develops, maintains, and is responsible for safeguarding the computer/electronic and hardcopy file folders containing sensitive and proprietary information about the Tribe and its members.  The incumbent must maintain confidentiality of all work and files pertaining to enrollment, clients, survey results, and all other material that may identify individuals by name (either directly or by reference), as set forth by the Tribal Council in the Personnel Manual.  Any violation in this matter may result in immediate termination of employment. All materials, including electronic materials of any type or format, produced are considered works made for hire and are the property of the Samish Indian Nation.

Please state your eligibility for Indian preference in your cover letter.  Indian preference must be documented prior to interview or hiring.  BIA Form 4432 or tribal enrollment ID may be submitted with the application if claiming Indian Preference.

All persons who are offered employment with the Samish Indian Nation must give permission for a thorough background check of previous work performance, motor vehicle history, credit history and criminal history, as well as a pre-employment drug screen.

This position is a “covered position” under the Tribe’s Indian Child and Family Violence Act Policy and all applicants must undergo a fingerprint background investigation in order to be hired for this position.  The Tribe will not hire, permit anyone to work or volunteer in a covered position if the person has ever been found guilty or entered a plea of no contest or guilty to any offense under federal, state, or Tribal law which involves violence, threat of violence, sexual assault, molestation, exploitation, prostitution, crimes against persons, or offenses committed against children.